8.8
rating
Ludopedia
8.6
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you're a fan of historical wargames and looking for an experience that works great both with a partner and solo, *Enemy Action: Ardennes* is a bullseye!
Highlights
- Multi-purpose card mechanics
- Strategic, diceless combat
- Exceptional solo mode
- Constant, impactful decisions
- High replayability
Keep in mind
- Language dependency
- Long playtime potential
- Initial learning curve
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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Get ready to relive one of the most intense moments of World War II with *Enemy Action: Ardennes*, the first title in a wargame series promising deep strategy and crucial decisions. This game places you at the heart of the Ardennes Offensive, the famous Battle of the Bulge, where you can command either the German or Allied forces in an epic conflict that unfolded in December 1944.
What makes *Enemy Action: Ardennes* special is its versatility. It functions as three games in one: a competitive experience for two players, where each side fights for supremacy, and two robust solo options, allowing you to play as either Allied or German, with an intelligent AI system controlling the opposing side. This means the fun doesn't depend on always having an opponent at hand!
The mechanics are a highlight. The game is driven by multi-purpose cards that you use to activate units, trigger command events, or gain tactical advantages in combat. And forget complex dice and charts for battle: here, you draw combat chits that build a unique narrative for each engagement, adding a layer of decision and risk. Every card or chit choice has consequences, often subtle, that can change the tide of war.
The detailed map, with oversized hexes for easy counter handling, represents 2.5 miles per hex, with units at regiment, brigade, and division scale. Each turn corresponds to one day of the battle, with alternating impulses that keep the tension high. If you're looking for an immersive wargame with constant decisions and fluid gameplay, *Enemy Action: Ardennes* is a weighty choice.
What makes *Enemy Action: Ardennes* special is its versatility. It functions as three games in one: a competitive experience for two players, where each side fights for supremacy, and two robust solo options, allowing you to play as either Allied or German, with an intelligent AI system controlling the opposing side. This means the fun doesn't depend on always having an opponent at hand!
The mechanics are a highlight. The game is driven by multi-purpose cards that you use to activate units, trigger command events, or gain tactical advantages in combat. And forget complex dice and charts for battle: here, you draw combat chits that build a unique narrative for each engagement, adding a layer of decision and risk. Every card or chit choice has consequences, often subtle, that can change the tide of war.
The detailed map, with oversized hexes for easy counter handling, represents 2.5 miles per hex, with units at regiment, brigade, and division scale. Each turn corresponds to one day of the battle, with alternating impulses that keep the tension high. If you're looking for an immersive wargame with constant decisions and fluid gameplay, *Enemy Action: Ardennes* is a weighty choice.
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Compass Games
Designer
John H. Butterfield
Artist
Knut Grünitz, Timothy Schleif
How many players can play Enemy Action: Ardennes?
The game is designed for 1 to 2 players. It excels in both competitive two-player matches and solo sessions, where an AI system controls the opposing side.
What is the average playtime?
Playtime can vary significantly, from 60 minutes for smaller scenarios up to 900 minutes (15 hours) for the full campaign. It's a game for those who like to delve deep!
What is the complexity level of Enemy Action: Ardennes?
It is considered a medium to high complexity game (BGG weight 4.26/5). While the basic rules are accessible, the strategic depth and constant decisions require dedication.
Do I need an opponent to play?
No! One of the great advantages is the robust solo mode. You can play controlling either the Allies or the Germans, with the game's system intelligently managing the enemy side.
What are the main components of the game?
The box is packed with 3 large maps (one for each game mode), 3 full sheets of double-sided counters, a deck of 110 poker-quality playing cards, 3 rules books (one for each game mode), and multiple player aid cards.
Does the game use dice for combat?
No! The combat system is diceless and chartless. The outcome is determined by an innovative combat chit-pull system, which creates a unique narrative for each engagement.
Who is Enemy Action: Ardennes recommended for?
It is highly recommended for fans of historical wargames, especially those who appreciate World War II and the Battle of the Bulge. If you're looking for a game with high replayability, strategic depth, and an excellent solo mode, this is for you!